Thai Restaurant Week Begins... Now

The Thai new year, called Songkran, is celebrated today, April 13, through this Wednesday. The word means "move" or to "change place," in regard to the sun's changing its position in the zodiac. Songkran doesn't boast any B-list celebrities reporting on a big ball dropping down a pole, but the Songkran Festival in the Thai section of Los Angeles draws some quarter of a million people. This year, 22 South Florida Thai restaurants are offering dining specials during what is dubbed Thai Restaurant Week (April 13-19). It is part of a promotion being organized by the Royal Thai Government Ministry of Commerce's Department of Export Promotion, in conjunction with the Royal Thai Government Ministry of Ridiculously Long Titles. Also participating are Thai Bev, makers of Chang Beer, and Mekhong, the Spirit of Thailand (made mostly of sugar cane and rice infused with herbs and spices). Both drinks will be available at the restaurants taking part, although Mekhong only in those with full liquor licenses.

Besides interesting elixirs, Thai Restaurant Week will feature dinner discounts, Thai entertainment, and a chance to win a trip for two to Thailand. Keep reading to find out the 22 South Florida participating restaurants (but before we go, happy new year to our Thai readers):

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